By J. Christopher Lombardo, Florida Divorce, Marital & Family Law Attorney
Congratulations! You have gotten engaged to the partner of your dreams. There is so much to do before your big wedding day… find a venue, create a menu, make a guest list…and that only scratches the surface. It can be easy to forget to research and decide on other important things that will matter in the long run, such as a prenuptial agreement or “prenup.”
What is a Prenuptial Agreement?
A prenuptial agreement is a written contract in which both parties of the couple agree on their rights and responsibilities regarding their accounts and assets in case of divorce or death. Considering a prenuptial agreement before even getting married can seem like you are betting against your own relationship, but that is not the case. On the contrary, discussing a prenuptial agreement can open the door for necessary conversations about money. In addition, studies show that couples who have prenuptial agreements actually have a lower divorce rate.
Why Do You Need a Prenup?
The most common reason to get a prenuptial agreement is to prepare in case of divorce or death, but the process of getting the agreement can prepare your marriage for a stronger future. Discussing complex topics like money, debts, savings goals and overall attitudes about finances can help you understand your partner’s views and priorities before you even walk down the aisle. The conversations around a prenuptial agreement may be challenging to begin with, but in the long run, it can open that line of communication and make your relationship stronger.
What is a Postnuptial Agreement?
Postnuptial agreements are virtually the same as prenuptial agreements, except the two parties have already tied the knot. Postnuptial agreements can also be more expensive because any marital assets must be considered, not just personal assets, as in a prenuptial agreement. So, if you are looking for a marital lawyer in Naples, look no further than Woodward Pires & Lombardo. We would be happy to help you draft either an effective prenuptial or postnuptial agreement.
Why Use an Attorney for Your Prenuptial Agreement?
For a prenuptial agreement, what are some reasons to contact family law attorneys in Naples, Florida? First, if you are entering into a marriage and one or both parties have already been previously married or have children, it is wise to have a prenuptial agreement. Furthermore, an individual who has already been through a divorce likely knows what a headache it is to deal with the assets and responsibilities of not having a prenuptial agreement. These individuals will probably want to avoid that stressful situation in the future. If one or both parties already have children, it is wise to protect the children’s financial assets from the previous marriage or an inheritance they received. Finally, if there were to be a death in the family, a prenuptial agreement could prevent a fight over a Will.
Protect Your Assets
Contact Woodward Pires & Lombardo, P.A., family law attorneys in Naples, Florida, to help you get ahead of these issues and others when it comes to prenuptial and postnuptial agreements. If you want to protect your assets, your wealth, your children and their inheritances, or your business, it is best to contact a divorce or family attorney for a prenup or postnup. As family law attorneys in Naples and Marco Island, we would be happy to assist you with all your legal needs in this area.
About the Author
J. Christopher Lombardo is a family law litigation attorney at Woodward, Pires & Lombardo, P.A. in Naples and has over three decades of experience practicing law in the state of Florida. Chris serves clients in marital and family law matters in Southwest Florida. He also provides Florida legal services in civil litigation, commercial litigation, contracts, appellate practice, securities, and personal injury law. Chris is a Certified Financial Litigator (CFL™) and Founding Member of the American Academy for Certified Financial Litigators (AACFL). Chris received his Juris Doctorate from Florida State University.
Woodward, Pires & Lombardo, P.A.
Naples Office:
3200 Tamiami Trail N, Ste 200
Naples, FL 34103
239-649-6555
Marco Island Office:
606 Bald Eagle Dr, Ste 500
Marco Island, Fl 34145
239-394-5161